Axe-wielding vandals have caused hundreds of pounds worth of damage at one of the county's finest beauty spots. Attenborough Nature Reserve's visitors centre was closed on Saturday morning while repairs to a bridge were carried out.
It is believed that between yesterday evening and the early hours, criminals targeted the drawbridge that connects the visitor centre to the rest of the park.
They smashed through the hydraulics pipes with an axe which brings the drawbridge up and down, causing oil to leak into the water below.
When the attack failed to lower the drawbridge they fled the scene leaving the weapon they used behind.
The oil which leaked into the water did come into contact with some wildlife including ducks and geese.
However, as the oil is biodegradable, it is not believed to have caused any harm to the animals.
When staff arrived at the centre in Beeston this morning they were forced to use boats to ferry themselves across.
It was reopened at around midday following emergency repairs.
The nature reserve itself has remained open throughout.
Assistant Manager Tim Sexton said the attack could cost them up to £1,000 to repair.
He said: "We do not understand why people would attempt to break-in to the Nature Centre as nothing of value is kept on the site.
"Whilst we are grateful that no damage was caused to the building itself, it will cost a lot to have the drawbridge repaired money that could be better spent protecting the wonderful wildlife found here at the Nature Reserve."
"Some of the ducks and geese have oil on their feathers which we will monitor.
"However fortunately the hydraulic oil used in the bridge mechanism here is fully bio-degradable and will cause no lasting damage to the wildlife or the Nature Reserve."
Photos were posted of the incident to the nature reserve's Facebook site.
Fans responded quickly with dozens of comments left online.
Lisa Boatwright said: "Very sad for you all. Hope the vandals get what they deserve!"
Richard Brown added: "Why??? What on earth was the point and they used an axe?!? Totally incomprehensible. They need catching and made to pay for the damage."
The incident was reported to Nottinghamshire Policeand is believed to have happened sometime overnight between 8pm and 6.30am.
Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information should call police on 101.For more Attenborough stories, click here
